Zayed Charity Run In Abu Dhabi To Welcome Over 10,000 Participants For Medical Research Support

The 2025 Zayed Charity Run, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, will start tomorrow from Wahat Al Karama and end at Erth Abu Dhabi. This event is expected to draw over 10,000 participants of diverse ages and nationalities. It embodies the spirit of giving and community unity inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The run's proceeds will support three advanced research programmes at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre. These initiatives include developing a cancer therapy using tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, creating an AI platform for precision medicine in multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes, and producing dermatological treatments from chorionic tissues for skin regeneration.

These projects highlight the UAE's dedication to medical innovation, aiming to provide sustainable benefits for future generations. The total prize pool for the run is AED1.5 million, encouraging participants to strive for excellence. The event not only promotes competition but also underscores a commitment to health and humanity.

Activities will commence with a 10 km run at 7:00 am, followed by a 5 km run at 7:15 am, and a 3 km run at 7:30 am. The awards ceremony is scheduled for 8:30 am. Lt. General (Ret.) Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, emphasized that exceeding 10,000 participants signifies the event's esteemed status.

Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, remarked on the event's significance as a prominent community and humanitarian occasion in Abu Dhabi. He noted its blend of sports, charity, and health awareness reflects the Founding Father's legacy and UAE's noble values.

The run kit collection began on Monday at Erth Abu Dhabi and concludes this Friday evening. Participants have shown great enthusiasm in preparing for race day. To facilitate logistics, parking spaces and free shuttle services are available from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Zayed Sports City between 4:30 am and 6:30 am.

Enhancing Participant Experience

Roads leading to the starting line will close at 5:00 am to ensure smooth operations. Along the course, cheering zones and scenic routes will be set up to enhance participant experience. Additionally, a community village at Erth Abu Dhabi will offer family activities, children's experiences, live performances, and food stations.

Al Kaabi stated that "The Zayed Charity Run has become a firmly rooted national event in the hearts of the community." He added that it is an occasion people eagerly anticipate due to its noble message of belonging and generosity.

Al Awani further highlighted that "Year after year, the event continues to expand its humanitarian impact." He stressed that its proceeds support specialized medical research that improves patients' lives while bolstering healthcare innovation in the country.

This year's Zayed Charity Run promises not only athletic achievement but also significant contributions to medical research advancements in Abu Dhabi.

With inputs from WAM